Signing Deeds & Contracts - Formalities for the Execution of Documents
A contract is only as enforceable as the way it is signed. Getting execution formalities wrong can create uncertainty about whether an agreement is binding, whether it takes effect as a deed, and whether key documents can be relied on later (for example by lenders, purchasers or auditors).
This collection gives you practical guidance on signing and executing documents correctly, including when you should use a deed, what witnessing requirements apply, and how to use signature blocks for different signatories such as individuals, companies, attorneys, partnerships and LLPs.
When Should You Use These Templates?
✅ you are about to sign an agreement and want to be confident it has been executed correctly
✅ you are not sure whether the document needs to be signed as a deed (and what that changes)
✅ a company is signing and you need the correct Companies Act signing method and signature block
✅ an attorney is signing under a power of attorney and you want the execution clause right
✅ a partnership or LLP is signing and you need the correct approach and signature wording
✅ you want to sign electronically and need practical guidance and suitable drafting
✅ you need a simple electronic signature clause to insert into an agreement
Signing Deeds & Contracts - Formalities for the Execution of Documents is part of Corporate. Just £38.50 + VAT provides unlimited downloads from Corporate for 1 year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this agreement need to be signed as a deed, or is an ordinary signature enough? +
Most contracts are valid as simple signed agreements, but some must be a deed, for example a transfer of land, a power of attorney, or a promise where nothing of value is given in return. A deed has stricter formalities and must say on its face that it is a deed. Getting this wrong can leave it unclear whether the document is binding. Simply-Docs provides guidance and signature blocks for both ordinary execution and deeds.
Our company is signing a contract. Who needs to sign it and how? +
A company can execute a document in set ways under the Companies Act 2006: by two authorised signatories (two directors, or a director and the company secretary), or by one director whose signature is witnessed. Using the correct method and signature block matters, as lenders, buyers and auditors will check it. Simply-Docs provides the correct Companies Act signature blocks for company execution, including as a deed.
Can we sign contracts electronically, and is an electronic signature valid? +
Yes. Electronic signatures are generally valid and enforceable for most contracts in England and Wales, provided the signatory intends to authenticate the document. Deeds can also be signed electronically, but the witnessing requirement still applies and the witness should see the signing. For some documents and registrations extra care is needed. Simply-Docs provides practical guidance and a simple electronic signature clause to insert into an agreement.
